I’ve been thinking a lot about progress
and what it means to move in the direction of the goals we set out to accomplish in
life. Our professional career, success inside challenge we face with our
kids, our relationships, the physical goals we set for ourselves, whatever it is—professional or
personal--how do we do it, how do we get to where we are going?
The big breakthrough or
opportunity for grandeur forward motion can feel like luck and timing, which
isn’t always on our side. Getting to where we want to go doesn’t
always come easy. When we get stuck, what motivates us to get back on
track and continue striving? How do we move forward and stay inspired?
I think it’s in seeking and celebrating small wins. Starting first with
what comes easy.
What if we started giving
ourselves some credit and acknowledgement for the everyday, consistent things
we are already doing well? Regardless
of the day or season in life, small wins are in there somewhere. Taking a shower to get your day started, making your bed in the morning, staying caught up on returning calls and
emails at work, showing up early for an appointment, making dinner when you
really want takeout, whatever
comes most easy to you in this moment. Start
with celebrating in these little spaces you might be overlooking because it’s
not the big win or end goal. This is the place of intention, the middle,
where a lot of our work often goes unnoticed.
Little wins create an opening for motivation and progress. A place where upward, forward motion already exists.
Little wins create an opening for motivation and progress. A place where upward, forward motion already exists.
We ought to be easier on
ourselves, give a little grace and space from our lofty dreams and
goals. When we stop for a moment and take notice of what is working
and where we are showing-up, we find an opportunity to
regain momentum. I believe our greatest
motivation to keep striving comes in celebration of these little everyday
decisions we’re making along the way. Seek to celebrate and take
the small win. You’ve earned it and it’s quite possibly the
beginning of something bigger ahead.